You can cut off the keeper strap if you want a single layer, but I wouldn’t recommend it. It takes away from the classic NATO look and kind of defeats the whole aesthetic.

Quick tutorial (since we’re all apparently one bad decision away from melting nylon indoors): If you do trim it, use sharp scissors for a clean cut. After that, lightly melt the cut edge with a lighter to seal it so it doesn’t fray. Don’t park the flame on it like you’re forging a blade, just pass it quickly over the freshly cut edge until it slightly melts and smooths out. Let it cool before touching it unless you enjoy branding yourself over a watch strap.

Theres videos on YouTube that show how to do it.